'Risk of Hearing Damage' 3M Soundproof Ear Covers Voluntary Recall

The Korea Consumer Agency announced on the 21st that it will conduct a voluntary recall of three models of 3M soundproof earmuffs that pose a risk of hearing damage during use.

The recalled models are 3M PELTOR X4A, X4B, and X4P3E, with a total of 3,940 units manufactured and sold from March 2020 to September 2022.

Location of product model name and manufacturing date on soundproof ear covers and example of cracks [Photo by Korea Consumer Agency]

These products are primarily used as hearing protection in industrial sites. They have received safety certification under the Industrial Safety and Health Act, and no domestic accident cases have been reported so far.

However, overseas, some products have been found to develop cracks, raising concerns about potential hearing damage to users. Accordingly, recalls have already been conducted in countries such as New Zealand.

Korea 3M, the domestic importer and distributor, had been addressing the crack issue internally but decided to proceed with a public voluntary recall following the recommendation of the Consumer Agency.

The Consumer Agency urged consumers who own the affected products to stop using them immediately and contact Korea 3M by phone or through their website to receive prompt assistance.

Detailed information can be found on Consumer 24, the Consumer Agency website, or the Consumer Harm Monitoring System.